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RSU 18 board authorizes grant applications but bars those requiring matching funds
Summary
The RSU 18 board unanimously approved a motion permitting administrators to apply for state and federal grants that do not require matching funds, adopting an amendment that requires any grant with match obligations be brought back to the board for approval.
The RSU 18 school board voted unanimously to authorize administration to apply for state and federal grant programs provided the grants do not require matching funds.
During discussion board members raised concerns that grants with required matching contributions can oblige the district to spend funds not previously budgeted. A board member, Heather, proposed an amendment to limit the preapproval to grants that "do not have match and fund requirements," which was seconded by John and adopted.
The superintendent clarified that the preapproval is intended to allow staff to submit timely applications for typical state and federal entitlement or formula funds (for example, certain Title programs) and to begin application cycles while premium numbers are released. He added that any application that would commit the district to a matching-dollar obligation would be brought to the board for specific approval.
The motion passed unanimously. Board members asked administration to continue identifying grant opportunities while flagging any that include matching requirements for prior board review.
